What happens when performance stops working—and presence becomes the path forward? In this episode of The New Masculine, Travis Stock is joined by world-class horseman and author Tik Maynard for a thoughtful conversation about masculinity, midlife, doubt, and what horses can teach us about how we relate—to ourselves and others. Drawing from his book Starting in the Middle, Tik reflects on competition, perfectionism, ethical tension, and the courage it takes to listen to your inner voice when external validation falls away. Together, Travis and Tik explore how false certainty shows up in modern masculinity, why authenticity can be a powerful form of leadership, and how presence—not performance—creates real connection. This episode is for men navigating growth, uncertainty, leadership, and the quiet reckoning that often comes at midlife.
Connect with Tim Maynard: https://www.copperlineequestrian.com
Get a Copy of the Book: Starting in the Middle
Connect with Travis: www.travisstock.com
IG: travers03
Support the show: www.patreon.com/thenewmasculine
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